The subdued voice in which many speak (6)

I believe the answer is:

mutter

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'the subdued voice' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both related to communication as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe you can see a link between them that I don't see?

'many speak' is the wordplay.
'many' becomes 'm' (Roman numeral for a thousand).
'speak' becomes 'utter' (synonyms).
'm'+'utter'='MUTTER'

'in which' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for mutter that I've seen before include "German violinist" , "carp, > grouse and > beef" , "Speak indistinctly or grumble" , "Speak quietly and indistinctly" , "Low continuous sound" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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